The reasons you mention in post #2 is why many don't use the event history so the original post with your suggested improvements would be great.
Have to agree with wizard about many people not using the event history. I stopped using it myself after the first couple of days.
It's one of the worst interfaces I have ever used.... it's absolute garbage. The game itself is excellent, well thought out and seems well
balanced. Clearly a whole lot of good work has gone into it and a lot of people deserve a well earned pat on the back. The event history appears to have been tacked on the back just before release.
I agree with most things that have already been said so I will not waste time repeating them.
I always thought useability was one of the most important aspects of software design, it seems that in this area FOE fails to deliver. Fit for purpose...your having a laugh.